The Epilepsy Institute of New Jersey is a team of board-certified neurologists and neurosurgeons who provide expert care for a variety of pediatric neurological conditions, including epileptic encephalopathies. Our team uses advanced diagnostic tools and innovative treatment techniques to ensure the best outcomes for your child.
The Physical Impact
Epileptic encephalopathies are a group of severe brain disorders characterized by frequent, often refractory (hard-to-control) seizures. These conditions can lead to significant cognitive, behavioral, and developmental impairments as the continuous seizure activity disrupts normal brain growth and function. Early intervention is critical to reduce seizure frequency, minimize neurologic damage, and support healthy development.
How Common Is This Condition?
Epileptic encephalopathies are relatively rare. Each specific syndrome within this group (e.g., West syndrome, Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, Dravet syndrome, etc.) has its own incidence rate. Many of these disorders emerge in infancy or early childhood, when the brain is rapidly developing. Genetic factors and underlying structural brain abnormalities may contribute to these conditions.
Risk Factors:
- Genetic mutations associated with certain epileptic syndromes
- Family history of severe epilepsy
- Structural abnormalities in the brain (congenital or acquired)
- Metabolic or mitochondrial disorders
Signs and Symptoms
Symptoms vary based on the specific form of epileptic encephalopathy but may include:
- Frequent, hard-to-control seizures (e.g., infantile spasms, tonic-clonic, myoclonic, or atonic seizures)
- Developmental delays and/or regression (loss of previously acquired skills)
- Behavioral challenges and irritability
- Cognitive impairment affecting learning and memory
- Difficulty with motor coordination or mobility
- Sleep disturbances
How We Diagnose
At the Epilepsy Institute of New Jersey, we take a comprehensive approach to diagnosing epileptic encephalopathies, focusing on accurately identifying the specific syndrome and uncovering any underlying causes. Key diagnostic steps include:
- EEG (Electroencephalogram): Essential for detecting abnormal brain activity and characteristic seizure patterns.
- MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): Identifies structural or developmental abnormalities in the brain.
- Genetic Testing: Helps pinpoint hereditary or spontaneous mutations linked to epileptic encephalopathies.
- Metabolic Screening: Assesses for metabolic or mitochondrial disorders that may contribute to seizures.
- Neurodevelopmental Evaluation: Evaluates cognitive, motor, and behavioral functioning to measure the condition's impact.
This comprehensive process ensures we develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your child's needs.
Treatment Options
Managing epileptic encephalopathies focuses on controlling seizures and supporting overall development. Treatment may include:
- Anti-Seizure Medications: Targeted drug regimens based on the specific syndrome and child's unique seizure types.
- Dietary Therapies: The ketogenic or modified Atkins diet can be effective for certain hard-to-treat seizure disorders.
- Medical Devices: Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) or other neuromodulatory implants may help reduce seizure frequency.
- Surgical Intervention: For children whose seizures do not respond to medical therapy, surgical procedures may be considered to remove or disconnect seizure foci.
- Rehabilitation and Support: Physical, occupational, and speech therapies, along with special education services, to maximize developmental outcomes and quality of life.
The Epilepsy Institute of New Jersey collaborates closely with families and a network of specialists to ensure each child receives comprehensive, multifaceted care.
Our Commitment to Your Child's Health
“I am neurosurgeon living in New Jersey, board-certified by both the American Board of Neurosurgery (ABNS) and Pediatric Neurosurgery (ABPNS). I specialize in the surgical treatment of complex epilepsy and serve as the Director of the Epilepsy Institute of New Jersey, Chief of Pediatric Epilepsy Surgery at Sanzari Children's Hospital, and Chief of Pediatric Neurosurgery at Children's Hospital of NJ, where I provide exceptional care for children with complex neurological conditions. Your child's health and well-being are our top priorities.”
